Bagai Stands Down as Canada's Captain

Ashish Bagai has stepped down as Captain of Canada's Senior Men's team.

In what was considered a major coup for Cricket Canada in 2009, Bagai left a career as a banker in London, England to take over Canada's captaincy. His presence behind the stumps and in the middle order led to the teams turn around on the field and ultimately pushed the team into the 2011 Cricket World Cup. Bagai was Canada's best batsmen since his return in 2009 and it was at the 2011 Cricket World Cup where he really shone. Earning sharp praise for his presence behind the stumps, Bagai was one of the most watched faces in the tournament staring both on and off the field.

In a letter to Cricket Canada's board, Bagai said "After a long thought-out evaluation and careful consideration, I have decided to step down as Captain of the Canadian National Cricket Team. It has been an honour to Captain my country in the sport I love and I thank everyone in this organization who helped and supported me throughout my term including administrators, coaches, managers and most of all, the players. I undertook each task over the last two years with the primary objective of moving not just the team but the entire organization forward. I have always had a passion for Canadian cricket and did what I thought would benefit the team and organization in my opinion.

It has been a great learning experience for me and I wish the next Captain all the best in leading the team forward."

Cricket Canada president Ranjit Saini thanked Bagai for his contributions.

"Cricket Canada thanks Ashish for his outstanding contribution to Canadian cricket at a time when circumstances were difficult and challenging. I wish him well for a bright and prosperous future and look forward to his continued contribution as a player and strong supporter of Canadian cricket."

Though returning to his private life, Bagai has informed Cricket Canada of his desire to remain part of the set-up and will make himself available for selection.